Stability Problems of Pyramidal von Mises Planar Trusses with Geometrical Imperfection

Abstract: The present paper deals with an analysis of pyramidal von Mises planar trusses with or without initial geometric imperfection. Models with real geometrical and material parameters were applied. The models had the cross section of a hot-rolled steel profile. The paper describes a dynamic relaxation method which monitors the potential energy of the von Mises planar truss loaded by displacement of top hinge. The transformed potential energy was depicted in flat and three-dimensional maps. Static eqilibrium paths and positions of chosen bifurcation points were found.